Choose the Right Route
Overnight in Tents or in Huts?
Which Route Offers the Best Altitude Acclimatization?
Altitude is the biggest challenge when climbing Kilimanjaro. At 5,895m, good acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
Longer routes mean better acclimatization since they give your body time to adjust.
The principle of “go high – sleep low” is best achieved on the Southern Circuit routes (Machame & Lemosho) and the Northern Circuit.
Ideally, climbers prepare by first summiting Mount Meru (4,600m) or Mount Kenya (4,985m) before Kilimanjaro.
If that’s not possible, adding an extra day on your chosen Kilimanjaro route is highly recommended (e.g., Machame 7 days, Lemosho 8 days, Northern Circuit 9 days).
Which Route is the Most Beautiful?
All routes showcase Kilimanjaro’s diverse ecosystems—from rainforest to alpine desert to glaciers.
Southern Circuit (Machame & Lemosho): The most scenic, with lush rainforest, the Shira Plateau, Barranco Valley, and the dramatic Barranco Wall.
Northern Side (Rongai & Northern Circuit): Offers solitude, rugged lava landscapes, and expansive views.
Only the Marangu Route ascends and descends the same way; all other routes provide more variety.
Which Route is the Least Crowded?
Kilimanjaro is one of the most climbed mountains in the world, so some crowding is inevitable.
Busiest routes: Marangu & Machame.
Less crowded routes: Lemosho (especially in the first days), Rongai, and Northern Circuit.
Camps can be busy, but the trails are vast—often you’ll hike in peace.
Travel season matters: high season (Jan–Mar, Jun–Oct) means more climbers, while off-season sees fewer.
Which is the Cheapest Route?
The Marangu Route is the most affordable because:
It is the shortest (5–6 days).
Accommodation is in huts (fewer porters needed).
Costs increase with:
Longer durations (higher park fees, staff wages, food).
Remote starting points (e.g., Lemosho & Rongai require extra transport).
Special logistics (e.g., Western Breach, Northern Circuit).
👉 For best value for money, the 7-day Machame Route is excellent—good acclimatization, varied landscapes, and reasonable cost. The 8-day Lemosho Route is growing in popularity as a less crowded, scenic alternative.
Insider Tip from Kilitop Adventure
For a truly unique Kilimanjaro experience, choose the Northern Circuit Route:
Longest (8–9 days) → best acclimatization.
Remote and peaceful, with sometimes only 2–3 groups per camp.
Stunning views of Mawenzi Peak and Kilimanjaro’s northern wilderness.
Slightly more expensive, but worth it for solitude and summit success.
Others Tips links
- Kilimanjaro Packing List
- Food on the Mountain
- How to Train for Kilimanjaro
- The Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro
- Altitude Sickness on Kilimanjaro
- How to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
- Kilimanjaro Guides and Porters
- Kilimanjaro Frequently Asked Questions
- Choose the Right Route
- Kilimanjaro Climbing Tips for a Successful Summit
- Mount Kilimanjaro Climate and Weather Overview